This pumpkin mac n cheese is perfect for the holiday season or for a Thanksgiving dish that your toddler will actually eat! If mac n cheese is the only thing they will eat at Thanksgiving dinner, that’s okay because this one is made with bone broth and pumpkin to get extra nutrients into your kids! Packed with fall flavors and made in just one pot for easy cleanup, this pumpkin pasta recipe is a great way to win over even the pickiest eaters.

Why One-Pot Pumpkin Mac and Cheese Is Great for Toddlers

1. Nutrient-Rich Pumpkin: Pumpkin is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, which is essential for your toddler’s vision and immune system. Sneaking it into a familiar favorite like mac and cheese is a win-win!
2. Bone Broth Boost: Kettle and Fire chicken bone broth not only adds a rich flavor to the dish but also provides additional nutrients like collagen and amino acids, supporting your toddler’s growth and development.
3. Protein-Packed Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese is not just for flavor; it adds a dose of protein and calcium, crucial for your little one’s bone health.
4. One-Pot Wonder: Less time spent cooking means more quality time with your toddler. With this one-pot recipe, you can enjoy a wholesome, homemade meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans.

Now, let’s get into the simple steps to create this delightful One-Pot Pumpkin Mac and Cheese.

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Ingredients

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 lb elbow noodles
• 4 cups Kettle and Fire chicken bone broth
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder

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How to Make Pumpkin Mac N Cheese for Toddlers

1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
2. Add the elbow noodles to the pot, stirring to coat them with the melted butter.
3. Pour in the Kettle and Fire chicken bone broth and bring it to a boil. Let it cook over medium-high heat for 10 minutes, ensuring a rolling boil.
4. After 10 minutes, add the milk and pumpkin puree to the pot. Don’t strain the noodles; let them cook in the flavorful broth.
5. Continue to boil for another 5-8 minutes or until the pasta is cooked and soft.
6. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and garlic powder to the pot. Stir over medium heat until the cheese is melted, and the sauce becomes smooth.
7. Once the mac and cheese is ready, let it slightly cool before serving.

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Substitutions

Noodles – Elbow macaroni works best, but any short pasta like shells, rotini, or penne will work.

Bone broth – Swap with vegetable broth or regular chicken broth if you prefer.

Milk – Use whole milk for creaminess, but dairy-free alternatives like oat or almond milk also work.

Cheddar cheese – Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend for a milder flavor.

Pumpkin puree – You can use sweet potato puree as a substitute if needed.

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Storing Extra Pumpkin Mac N Cheese

If you happen to have leftovers (although it’s so delicious that might not happen), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to maintain that creamy consistency.

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Common Questions

Can I make this pumpkin mac n cheese dairy-free?

• Absolutely. Use a plant-based butter, dairy-free milk, and vegan shredded cheese.

Can I add veggies or protein?

• Yes! Stir in cooked broccoli, peas, shredded chicken, or ground turkey for extra nutrition.

Is this easy pumpkin pasta toddler-friendly?

• Yes! The pumpkin adds extra nutrients, and the creamy, cheesy sauce is perfect for little ones.

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Explore My Other Mac N Cheese Recipes

Cauliflower Mac N Cheese – This creamy cauliflower mac and cheese is a lighter twist on a classic! Packed with hidden veggies and a rich, cheesy sauce, it’s perfect for toddlers and families looking for a nutritious comfort food option.

Broccoli Mac N Cheese Bites – These broccoli mac and cheese bites are a fun, toddler-friendly way to sneak in extra veggies! Cheesy, handheld, and freezer-friendly, they make a perfect snack, lunchbox filler, or easy dinner side.

Macaroni Salad – This easy macaroni salad is creamy, refreshing, and packed with flavor. Made with simple ingredients, it’s perfect for toddlers and families to enjoy at lunch, picnics, or as a quick side dish.

Buffalo Chicken Mac – Spice up dinner with this buffalo chicken mac and cheese! A creamy, cheesy base topped with a kick of buffalo flavor makes it a hearty meal for parents, while you can keep a mild version aside for toddlers.

Microwave Carrot Mac N Cheese – This quick microwave carrot mac and cheese is ready in minutes and secretly packed with veggies! Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute toddler lunches without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.

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Tag me @reallittlemeals if you’ve tried this one-pot pumpkin mac n cheese! I’d love to see your yummy creations!